Illustrator speaks to students

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Jared Manninen, a local author and illustrator, recently visited Zephyr Cove Elementary School to talk with a fifth-grade class.

Manninen spoke about his career path, writing books and illustrating to 26 fifth-graders in Mr. Kixmiller's class. He has been taking time out of his creative schedule to volunteer his time talking with children, according to a press release.

Manninen served in the Marine Corps from 1992-96, then earned a bachelor's degree in technical writing in 1999. He discovered his passion for art while attending college and has continued to paint and draw over the years. In 2010, Manninen forged a new career path by merging his art, design, and writing background into the publishing company Makoto Press. He has since created black-and-white graphic novels and illustrated stories.